5 Favorite Herbs for Lowering Testosterone

Polycystic ovarian syndrome has a characteristic feature of elevated androgens (male hormones), be that testosterone, androsterone, DHEA, of DHT. These herbs may be beneficial for the unwanted complications of PCOS including acne, male-pattern hair loss, hirsutism (unwanted hair growth), and even irregular periods.

Spearmint

Spearmint, best consumed as a tea, has been shown to have significant decreases in free testosterone in luteinizing hormone in studies. In that study there was a significant change in self-reported hirsutism-related hair growth.

Red Reishi (Ganoderma)

This herb is known as a “superfood” with anti-cancer and immune boosting properties, but it also is effective with PCOS because it reduces an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (an androgen that is ~5 times as strong as testosterone).

Peony & Licorice

These two herbs (which we will discuss together) are combined in traditional chinese medicine and are useful in lowering testosterone in women with PCOS, as well as increasing ovulation rates.

Saw Palmetto

This herb is traditionally used to help with men’s prostate help. Yes, I know you ladies don’t have prostates, but it helps because it functions in the same way: it reduces 5-alpha-reductase activity. Moreover, saw palmetto may help regulate estrogen in women with estrogen dominance (common with PCOS). as well.

Bonus: Green Tea

Green tea, which contains epigallocatechins (called EGCG) and also inhibits 5-alpha reductase to lower testosterone, but it also has other benefits for women with PCOS: it helps speed up metabolism for weight loss, and it improves insulin sensitivity. Better yet: add a little lemon to your tea, as it increases the absorption of those EGCGs up to seven times!